Did Russia, Iran provoke Niger walkout from US military pact?
Niger suspends military agreement with US due to ties with Russia and Iran, impacting American operations in Sahel region.
- Bilawal Riaz
- 1 min read
Niger has suspended a military agreement with the United States, leading to the halting of American troops’ operations in the Sahel region. The move was in response to US concerns over Niger’s ties with Russia and Iran. The agreement, signed in 2012, allowed US forces to operate from Niger’s Air Base 201 for military operations in the region. The suspension came after US officials expressed disapproval of Niger’s potential relationships with Russia and Iran during a recent visit. Niger criticized US pressure on its choice of military partners and accused American diplomats of a condescending attitude. With the US presence failing to address terrorism in the region, Niger turned towards Russia and Iran for support. The suspension could weaken Niger’s security and could impact US military operations in the Sahel, potentially diminishing the West’s influence in the region where Russia’s presence is growing.